How A Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help You

A criminal defense lawyer is a lawyer that you’ll want to retain to help you fight your criminal charges. Your defense lawyer will review the facts of your case, analyze the police’s arrest report and investigative reports, line up witnesses, and argue on your behalf at court hearings. A criminal defense lawyer has many jobs. Aside from defending your rights – criminal defense lawyers can negotiate with prosecutors to get your charges reduced, which could result in a lighter sentence.

WHY SHOULD I HIRE A CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER?

Choosing and hiring a criminal defense lawyer to represent you in a criminal matter is one of the most important decisions you can ever make. An experienced criminal lawyer can make a huge difference between having your case dismissed completely or being convicted and being strapped with mountains of fines and spending lots of time in custody. Those charged with crimes can make the mistake of thinking that their charge isn’t “winnable” so they go with a public defender. The same folks also look at the “saving money” aspect of going with a public defender. The truth is, only an experienced defense lawyer can tell you what the strengths and weaknesses of your case are after taking the time to review it. Often, public defenders aren’t afforded that luxury because their caseload is so voluminous and overbearing that they physically cannot give your case the time it deserves. Private criminal defense lawyers pick and choose which cases they take on – often based on whether they can devote the time it takes to handle their client’s needs.

In the end, a reputable criminal defense lawyer will pay for themselves in terms of the money they can save you in fines and fees and jail time.

HOW DO I KNOW WHICH CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER IS THE BEST ONE FOR ME?

Picking out a criminal defense lawyer is similar to picking out a doctor. You want to do your homework and meet with many before finally settling on one. Attorneys – like doctors – can be expensive, and you want to get your money’s worth, so be sure to do a thorough background check on the ones you meet with. Go with a criminal defense lawyer who specializes in what you are charged with. For example, if someone is charged with murder, that person probably doesn’t want to go with a criminal defense attorney whose sole area of practice is defending marijuana clients, he wants someone who can capably defend the murder charges. There is no difference with DUIs – hire a criminal defense lawyer who can capably handle DUI representation.

Pick a criminal defense lawyer that you like – that you trust. You’re going to be meeting with, and telling this person information you probably won’t be telling anyone else. It’s important that you trust your criminal defense lawyer, just as you would your doctor.

Comments

I agree with the statement in this article that hiring a go criminal defense lawyer in a criminal matter is one of the most important decisions you ca ever make. I hope I never have to be in that situation, but if I am I want to make sure I have the very best case. I think all people reading this article can benefit from the advice and tips stated here. Thanks for the information!

A good friend of mine was recently charged with a DUI, and he’s asked me to help him find a good lawyer. I’ve never hired a lawer before, though, so I’m happy that I found your post! I really liked your tips, especially what you mentioned about finding a lawyer who is experienced with DUI cases. I’ll be sure to read about each potential lawyer’s track record with DUI cases before deciding who to hire! Thank you for the advice!

My brother was recently charged with a crime. He believes he was treated unfairly, so he’s looking for legal help to ensure his rights are fulfilled. I didn’t realize how important it is to choose a criminal defense lawyer that specializes in the specific area you are dealing with to ensure he has the experience needed for a successful trial. I’ll be sure my brother knows about this consideration.